Urban sustainability has become a hot topic in recent IELTS exams, reflecting global concerns about rapid urbanization and its environmental impact. Based on trends from past exams and current global issues, questions related to sustainable urban growth are likely to appear more frequently in future IELTS Writing Task 2 prompts. Let’s examine a highly relevant question on this topic and explore how to craft a high-scoring response.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that governments should focus on reducing environmental damage when planning and constructing urban areas, while others think the quality of life for residents should be the priority. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question presents two contrasting viewpoints on urban planning priorities:
- Reducing environmental damage
- Prioritizing residents’ quality of life
It’s crucial to address both perspectives and clearly state your own opinion. Let’s break down the key elements:
- Topic: Urban planning and development
- Focus: Environmental protection vs. quality of life
- Task: Discuss both views and give your opinion
- Key words: governments, reducing environmental damage, quality of life, urban areas
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
Here’s a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:
In the face of rapid urbanization, the debate over prioritizing environmental protection versus residents’ quality of life in urban planning has intensified. While both aspects are crucial for sustainable urban development, I believe that a balanced approach addressing both concerns simultaneously is the most effective strategy.
Those who advocate for prioritizing environmental protection argue that the long-term sustainability of cities depends on minimizing ecological damage. By focusing on green infrastructure, renewable energy systems, and biodiversity conservation, urban planners can create cities that are more resilient to climate change and have a lower carbon footprint. For instance, Singapore’s extensive green building initiatives and urban forest projects have significantly improved air quality and reduced the urban heat island effect, demonstrating the tangible benefits of environmentally-focused urban planning.
On the other hand, proponents of prioritizing quality of life contend that the primary purpose of urban development is to create livable spaces for residents. This perspective emphasizes the importance of affordable housing, efficient public transportation, accessible healthcare, and recreational facilities. Cities like Copenhagen, consistently ranked among the world’s most livable cities, showcase how focusing on citizens’ well-being through cyclist-friendly infrastructure and abundant public spaces can create thriving urban communities.
In my opinion, the most effective approach to urban planning is one that integrates both environmental protection and quality of life considerations. This holistic strategy recognizes that environmental health and human well-being are inextricably linked. For example, developing extensive urban green spaces not only supports biodiversity and improves air quality but also provides residents with areas for recreation and relaxation, enhancing both environmental sustainability and quality of life.
Moreover, investments in sustainable public transportation systems and energy-efficient buildings can simultaneously reduce a city’s carbon footprint and improve residents’ daily lives through reduced commute times and lower energy costs. Cities like Curitiba, Brazil, have successfully implemented such integrated approaches, creating a model of sustainable urban development that balances ecological concerns with human needs.
In conclusion, while both environmental protection and quality of life are vital considerations in urban planning, I believe the most successful cities of the future will be those that recognize the interdependence of these factors. By adopting a holistic approach that addresses both aspects concurrently, urban planners can create sustainable, livable cities that thrive in harmony with the natural environment.
(Word count: 374)
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
Now, let’s look at a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:
Urban planning is a complex issue that involves balancing different priorities. Some people think governments should focus on protecting the environment when planning cities, while others believe improving the quality of life for residents is more important. This essay will discuss both views and provide my opinion.
Those who support environmental protection in urban planning argue that it’s crucial for the future of our planet. They believe that by building green spaces, using renewable energy, and reducing pollution, cities can become more sustainable. For example, some cities are planting more trees and creating parks to improve air quality and provide habitats for wildlife. This approach can help fight climate change and create healthier environments for people to live in.
On the other hand, people who prioritize quality of life for residents argue that cities should focus on making life better for the people who live there. This could include building affordable housing, improving public transportation, and creating more job opportunities. They believe that if people are happy and comfortable in their city, they will be more productive and contribute more to society. For instance, cities with good public transportation systems often have less traffic and pollution, which can improve both quality of life and the environment.
In my opinion, both environmental protection and quality of life are important in urban planning. I think the best approach is to try to achieve both goals at the same time. For example, creating more green spaces in cities can help the environment and also give people places to relax and exercise. Similarly, improving public transportation can reduce pollution and make it easier for people to get around the city.
To conclude, while some people believe environmental protection should be the main focus of urban planning and others think quality of life is more important, I believe both aspects are crucial. By finding ways to address both issues together, cities can become more sustainable and better places to live.
(Word count: 323)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Ensure your essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, and a conclusion stating your opinion.
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Balanced argument: Address both sides of the argument fairly before presenting your own view.
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Specific examples: Use relevant examples to support your points. For the higher band score, include more specific and diverse examples.
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Cohesion and coherence: Use a range of linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly.
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Vocabulary: For a higher band score, use a wider range of vocabulary and more sophisticated expressions. For example, the Band 8-9 essay uses phrases like “inextricably linked” and “holistic strategy,” while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language.
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Grammar: Use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more varied and sophisticated sentence structures.
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Task response: Ensure you fully address all parts of the question, including discussing both views and giving your opinion.
Essential Vocabulary for Urban Sustainability
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Urbanization (noun) /ˌɜːbənaɪˈzeɪʃən/: The process of making an area more urban
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Sustainable development (noun phrase) /səˈsteɪnəbəl dɪˈveləpmənt/: Development that meets current needs without compromising future generations
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Green infrastructure (noun phrase) /griːn ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/: An approach to water management that protects, restores, or mimics the natural water cycle
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Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat
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Urban sprawl (noun phrase) /ˈɜːbən sprɔːl/: The uncontrolled expansion of urban areas
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Renewable energy (noun phrase) /rɪˈnjuːəbəl ˈenədʒi/: Energy from a source that is not depleted when used
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Carbon footprint (noun phrase) /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/: The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of activities
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Urban heat island (noun phrase) /ˈɜːbən hiːt ˈaɪlənd/: An urban area that is significantly warmer than its surrounding rural areas
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Livability (noun) /ˌlɪvəˈbɪləti/: The suitability of a place for living
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Eco-friendly (adjective) /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/: Not harmful to the environment
Conclusion
Sustainable urban growth is a critical topic in today’s world and is likely to appear frequently in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. By understanding the key issues and having a range of relevant vocabulary and examples at your disposal, you can approach these questions with confidence.
To further improve your skills, try writing your own essay on the topic discussed in this article. You can post your essay in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners. This practice will help you refine your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS exam.
For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:
- How to Promote Renewable Energy in Urban Areas
- How Urban Development Affects Green Spaces
- How to Create a Sustainable City
Remember, consistent practice and exposure to a wide range of urban sustainability topics will help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to excel in your IELTS Writing Task 2.